Portable Integrated Diamond Nitrogen Vacancy Radio Frequency (RF) Magnetometry System for Enhanced Detection of Person-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices

Technical Abstract

The proposal aims to develop a Portable Integrated Diamond Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) Radiofrequency (RF) Magnetometry System for enhanced detection of Person-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (PBIEDs). This system leverages the exceptional sensitivity and spatial resolution of Diamond NV centers for Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance (NQR) detection, providing unique chemical "fingerprints" of explosive compounds in the MHz RF range. The primary objective of Phase I is to establish the foundation for this high-sensitivity, portable quantum magnetometer, focusing on optimizing nitrogen doping in diamond substrates and evaluating silicon carbide (SiC) doping. The project includes refining NV center quality through advanced material processing techniques, integrating state-of-the-art optical and readout methodologies, and implementing dynamical decoupling and quantum heterodyne sensing to mitigate spin dephasing and enhance coherence times. The proposed system aims to achieve sub-picotesla accuracy within the RF spectrum, ensuring high specificity and sensitivity in detecting PBIEDs, with plans for further development in Phase II based on Phase I findings. The research will also explore the potential advantages of NV centers in SiC for scalability and longer coherence times. The project involves comprehensive material characterization, system assembly, calibration, and performance testing, laying the groundwork for a robust, efficient, and field-deployable explosive detection solution.

Anticipated Benefits and Potential Commercial Applications

The proposed Portable Integrated Diamond NV Radiofrequency (RF) Magnetometry System offers significant advancements in the detection of Person-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (PBIEDs). By utilizing the unique properties of Diamond NV centers and the specificity of Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance (NQR), this system ensures high sensitivity and spatial resolution, making it an ideal tool for accurately identifying explosive compounds. The benefits of this technology include enhanced public safety through the reliable detection of hidden explosives, reduced false positives, and improved operational efficiency for military and law enforcement agencies. Potential commercial applications extend beyond PBIED detection, encompassing broader security and surveillance markets. The system's high sensitivity and specificity make it suitable for use in airports, public transportation, border control, and large public events to prevent terrorist threats. Additionally, the technology can be adapted for industrial applications such as quality control in pharmaceuticals and chemical manufacturing, where detecting specific molecular compounds with high precision is crucial. The portability, lightweight design, and low power consumption of the system also make it an attractive option for various field applications, ensuring quick deployment and real-time analysis capabilities. The proposed system represents a significant leap in quantum sensing technology, promising to set new standards in security and safety sectors while opening new avenues for commercial exploitation.

Key words:

Diamond/SiC NV Centers, Quantum Magnetometry, Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance (NQR), Person-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (PBIEDs), ODMR Spectroscopy, Synchronized Readout